Sweden Confused At Trump’s “Look at What’s Happening in Sweden” Statement; Responds with Ridicule, Anger On Social Media

Swedes took to social media to react to Trump’s statement claiming an attack or immigrant-related crime occurred in Sweden the night before.

The nation responded with confusion, ridicule and anger Sunday after Trump’s comments at a rally in Florida

During Trump’s rally Saturday in the state of Florida, where he has been spending the last two consecutive weekends at his golf resort, resembled that of a campaign speech. Trump launched a sharp attack on Europe’s refugee policies, listing out places hit by terrorist attacks.

He said to supporters, “You look at what’s happening. We’ve got to keep our country safe. You look at what’s happening in Germany, you look at what’s happening last night in Sweden. Sweden, who would believe this?”

Swedish Response

Apparently the Swedes didn’t because nothing occurred in the nation on Friday, or Saturday either. Swedish residents were confused at his remarks, responding on social media.

“Sweden? Terror attack? What has he been smoking? Questions abound,” said Carl Bildt, Sweden’s former prime minister and current foreign minister in a post on Twitter.

Trump didn’t directly state that an attack had occurred in Sweden, but the context suggested that he had actually thought something had happened. He mentioned the country immediately after he made negative comments on Germany for accepting so many refugees and seekers of asylum.

“Sweden,” he stated. “They took in large numbers. They’re having problems like they never thought possible. You look at what’s happening in Brussels. You look at what’s happening all over the world. Take a look at Nice. Take a look at Paris. We’ve allowed thousands and thousands of people into our country and there was no way to vet those people. There was no documentation. There was no nothing. So we’re going to keep our country safe.”

Comparisons and Media

In contrast to Trump’s accusations, almost all the men involved in terrorist attacks throughout Europe, such as Paris, Brussels, Nice, and so on, were citizens of either France of Belgium.

Some Swedish newspapers joked about Trump’s statements, comparing him to Swedish Chef, a popular “Muppets” character, and Ikea, the famous furniture company.

Others believe Trump’s comments were influenced by Fox News’ previous interview of a filmmaker who suggests that migrants to Sweden are connected to a recent crime wave.